About AARNet
Australia’s Academic and Research Network (AARNet), founded in 1989, has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s digital landscape as the pioneers of the country’s Internet. Our mission extends beyond mere connectivity; we are the architects, builders, and operators of a world-class network infrastructure that fuels critical research and learning. At AARNet, innovation thrives within a vibrant community.
The Role: Programme Director
This role provides executive-level stewardship and end-to-end leadership for the organisation’s projects most significant telecommunications infrastructure investments. As the primary architect of project success, the Programme Director will integrate high-level strategic oversight with commercial management to ensure the seamless delivery of large-scale fibre backbone and network infrastructure programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Leadership & Delivery
- Provide executive leadership for major infrastructure projects from planning and mobilisation through to construction and commissioning.
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Establish delivery strategies, project structures, and governance frameworks to ensure timely, efficient, and controlled execution.
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Oversee engineering, design, civil construction, fibre installation, and commissioning activities.
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Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to required technical and quality standards.
Safety & Risk Management
- Act as a visible safety leader, ensuring compliance with WHS legislation, critical controls, and organisational safety frameworks.
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Ensure contractors and partners operate in accordance with approved work methods, risk controls, and safety management systems.
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Work proactively to identify and manage project risks, regulatory requirements, and operational hazards.
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Work with the Group WHS adviser to ensure alignment and best practice.
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Lead incident investigations and corrective actions where required.
Stakeholder & Governance Management
- Manage relationships with key stakeholders including government agencies, utilities, landowners, councils, and institutional clients.
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Ensure projects comply with applicable planning approvals, land access agreements, environmental requirements, and regulatory frameworks.
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Provide clear and accurate project reporting and presentations at Board and Executive level.
Delivery Partner Management
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Lead and manage a network of civil contractors, engineering consultants, and specialist delivery partners.
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Establish clear performance expectations and delivery KPIs.
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Ensure all workers operate in accordance with contractual obligations, safety standards, and quality requirements.
Organisational Leadership
- Build and lead high-performing project teams across engineering, construction, and program management functions.
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Foster a culture of safety, trust, accountability, collaboration, engagement, and delivery excellence.
Skills, Experience & Qualifications:
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Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline (essential).
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Postgraduate qualification in Project Management or Business (desirable).
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Professional certification such as PMP, RPEQ, or equivalent (desirable).
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Extensive experience delivering large-scale telecommunications, utilities, or infrastructure projects.
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Demonstrated leadership of complex multi-contractor construction programs.
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Strong commercial acumen including contract negotiation and cost control.
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Deep understanding of WHS obligations and infrastructure risk management.
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Experience working within governance frameworks and board-level reporting environments.
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Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
Why Work at AARNet?
At AARNet, we’re passionate about advancing global education and critical research. Our Australia-wide network, with global reach, supports some of the most demanding network-based applications. If you’re looking for a purpose-driven workplace where you can make a difference, consider joining our team.
Make an impact: By working with us, you’ll directly contribute to critical research in fields like astronomy, physics, earth observation, environment, health, and medicine. Our mission matters, and we’re committed to providing equal opportunities for all.
Competitive Benefits and Conditions:
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Superannuation: Enjoy a 17% superannuation contribution.
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Parental/Adoption Leave: We offer 24 weeks of paid parental leave and superannuation top-up.
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Secondary Carer Leave: 16 weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers.
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Wellness Leave: 2 days per month paid Women’s wellness leave.
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Family & Domestic Violence Leave: 20 days of paid leave.
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Other Supportive Leaves: Paid leave for various life events such as weddings, deaths, trauma, and disasters.
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Purchased Leave: Options to purchase additional Annual Leave.
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Flexible Work Options: We support work-life balance.
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Equal Opportunity Focus: We value diversity and inclusion.
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Social Responsibility and Ethics: We lead by example.
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Cutting-Edge Technologies: Access to work with the latest industry technology.
